Meet the 'selector,' Thomas Dubee of Burlington

Mar. 2, 2011

Burlington disc jockey Thomas "Selector" Dubee

Written by

Myra Mathis Flynn, Free Press Correspondent

Burlington disc jockey Thomas "Selector" Dubee opted to move his music to Church Street after the tough streets of New Haven, Conn., started to wear on him.

Since the move, he has spearheaded the Burlington branch of Upsetta International Sound System: a team of reggae and dancehall DJ's that originated in Montego Bay, Jamaica, in the early 1980s.

Do you consider yourself a DJ, an MC or both?

Many would refer to me as a DJ; however, nowadays, with computers and various programs that essentially mix music for you, there are so many people out there claiming to be "DJs" that I feel the once glorified position of DJ has been quite tarnished within the past few years. Though, technically, in terms of sound systems and Jamaican patois I am a "selector" (referred to in the U.S. as a DJ). I also "chat" (talk/sing) on the microphone in regards to hyping up the crowd, presenting songs to the crowd, etc. -- much as a "DJ" (known in the U.S. as a DJ) would do in Jamaica or on a sound system. I believe what sets me apart from the average DJ or player of music is my energy and stage presence that I incorporate into my set. I dance, jump around, climb up on things and live the music I play, all while perfecting my mixes and selections.

What projects are you involved in?

I am currently a leading member of Upsetta International Sound System. I am now one of the main selectors for Upsetta International Sound System (having been sent to represent the sound in Germany, Austria, Jamaica and other countries and various states), as well as the main force behind our marketing and branding.

Upon returning to Vermont, I started an Upsetta International family here in Burlington. That family consists of long time friend, JJ "Dante" Vezina and longtime Burlington reggae legend/friend, Jon Demus. JJ and I established Upsetta Records in 2008, and we introduced ourselves to the world with our debut release, "The Cuss Fix Riddim."

What's your take on the Burlington music scene?

I cherish the diversity that Burlington offers as well as the love and energy from a community that passionately supports local and international acts. I often get comments, begging and pleading for a reggae night or a more diverse night on a Friday or Saturday evening anywhere in Burlington. Currently, on a Friday and Saturday night, you can hear the same style of music and/or songs being played in most venues. I have no personal vendetta against the style of music being played, but I feel the diverse group of music lovers in Burlington have their hands tied as far as what their options are on the "main" nights to go out over the weekend.

What are your plans for the future?

Well, having just signed a five-year lease for Upsetta Studio, my immediate plans are to stay settled in Burlington. I will continue to work on improving, focusing and expanding on the growth for Upsetta International, Upsetta Studio and Upsetta Records.

Listen up

For more information or to contact Thomas "Selector" Dubee, check out: